COULD you recognise the signs of modern slavery?

More than 100 potential slavery victims were referred to police in Cheshire last year – and more than a third of referrals involved children, figures show.

But anti-slavery charity Unseen says the figures vastly underestimate the problem and called for more to be done to disrupt the growing demand for the exploitative practice.

The charity's CEO Andrew Wallis said the impact of modern slavery – whether financial, sexual or criminal – can leave victims with life-long trauma, horrific physical injuries and a long journey to recovery.

Calling for more to be done to protect vulnerable people from exploitative predators, he urged people to recognise signs of modern slavery and report any suspicions.

On its website, Unseen says signs may include isolation, restricted freedom of movement, reluctance to seek help, signs of physical or psychological abuse, poor living conditions or unusual travel arrangements.

Modern slavery cases soared nationally last year, with the identification of thousands of potential victims meaning referrals for support in 2021 were the highest on record.

Home Office data shows 112 potential cases of modern slavery were flagged to Cheshire Police last year – and at least 41 (37 per cent) of all referrals last year involved child victims.

Where a form of exploitation was recorded, the figures show 18 referrals were linked to labour-related exploitation, three sexual and 42 criminal, such as ‘county lines’ activity.

Overall, the number of referrals increased by 44 per cent, from 78 in 2020.

Across the UK, more than 12,000 potential victims were referred to police last year – up 20 per cent from 10,600 in 2020 and the highest number recorded since the Government's National Referral Mechanism was introduced in 2009.

The National Police Chiefs' Council lead for modern slavery, chief constable Shaun Sawyer, linked increased referrals nationally to greater awareness, understanding and reporting of the issue.

He said thousands of officers were trained to investigate the issue, adding that forces worked with national and local authorities and specialist organisations to support victims and bring offenders to justice.

A Home Office spokesman said the UK has led the world in protecting victims of modern slavery and would continue to identify and support victims.